I spent a week in Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sa Pa and Halong Bay) traveling with a guide from HandSpan and checking out the area for a potential tour. The beginning of my trip was an overnight train to to the SaPa region. The train journeys itself was an experience. Fortunately I was moved to the new Tulico Carriage and avoided sharing a small train cabin with 3 men. I guess I'm getting a bit spoiled and prefer… read more »

I was unsure of the underarm zips of this non-traditional biking jacket. The weight is heavier than my other gore jackets and the slim fit and slightly lower back (bike back) covers more than traditional hiking jackets

What effect is the current economic situation having on your travel plans for 2009?
None
Traveling closer to home
Taking less trips than usual
Shortening planned trips
Downgrading accommodations
Looking for "deals"